[philmont] The Value of Observing

So take it as far as you can - and beyond

With eyes you don't use enough - gather up strength

As Thoroughfare Gap will await you forever

You're seeking to get there, for even before

It's no matter - no distance - it's the ride.

        Steven Stills, Thoroughfare Gap, 1972

Pete Swiggum wrote:
> John and all,
>
> Your example of taking a few moments to show the boys something, perhaps
> helping them learn about or appreciate something small while on the
> trail, made me think of a couple quotes that I put in my high adventure
> syllabus, both for Northern Tier and Philmont.
>
> I encourage this at every opportunity so maybe, just maybe, the boys
> will remember a little more about their trek, thereby making the trip a
> bit more memorable and special, instead of simply knowing that they did
> something in the summer from this date to that date.
>
> It's so easy, especially at Philmont, with all it's grand views, to see
> nothing but the big picture. This is just a subtle reminder that
> there's more to nature's beauty than the big stuff.
>
>
> THE VALUE OF OBSERVING
>
> How do you see the trail?
>
> Is merely covering miles with eyes on the ground a journey?
> Do you measure the worth of a trip by distance and pace or can you see
> more by observing and noticing?
>
> The worth of a hike, or any journey, lies in the trip itself.
> People met, sights seen, memories...
> These are the rewards of a hike.
>
> We value things and acquisitions when it is reflection that we need.
> By hiking mindfully, we open up both ourselves and the world around us.
>
> The return on such an investment in awareness is lifelong in value.
>
> ~ Written by Greg M. Romaneck in his book "A Superior Journey - Trail
> Reflections from Isle Royale"
>
> The other quote is from Larry Ricker, a friend of mine and excellent
> photographer from Rochester, MN:
>
> To really appreciate the wilderness, one must pay attention to the small
> things, as well as the grandiose.
>
> Pete Swiggum
> Green Bay, WI
> Philmont 2005
> ICWTGBTP!!
>

-------------------------------------------------------
Scouting E-mail Discussion Lists @ usscouts.org
Listserv Commands at http://usscouts.org/lists/lc.asp
-------------------------------------------------------
Send listserv commands to: listserv@troop47.com
Send postings to: philmont@troop47.com
List FAQ found at: http://usscouts.org/lists/faq.asp
List Administrator: philmont_owner@troop47.com
-------------------------------------------------------
To Unsubscribe send text email to:

     To: listserv@troop47.com
     Subject: unsubscribe
     Body: unsubscribe philmont@troop47.com
-------------------------------------------------------

As you gather around this virtual campfire with fellow
Scouts and Scouters, do your best to be trustworthy,
loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
-------------------------------------------------------

 
Received on Thu Aug 9 16:15:06 2007